Active Life Madarao

First of all Colleen and I would like to say sorry for taking so long to write this review Ms. L. Dawes, but I am keeping my promise to you. Colleen and I spent a wonderful week at this location for a week of skiing (February 3-9, 2024). We took the Shankansen from Tokyo Station To Iiyama Station (1.5 hours) and then a bus (30 minutes) up to Madarao Ski Area. We recommend taking the bus costing 700 yen due to storage underneath for luggage.Ms. Dawes was waiting for us outside to make sure we were not lost, which was really nice of her. The Hotel/Lodge wasn't too far from the slopes but its slightly up hill especially when wearing boots and carrying your skies and poles. The room was exactly as advertised (clean, comfortable, and warm for those cold nights). The bathroom was really small but it had great water pressure and the water was hot and never cold. Most of all, we didn't have to share a bathroom unlike some room rates. We had a queen bed and the room was small but that is to be expected in Japan. I had my skies and gear forwarded from Narita Airport, which is worth every yen. Space is a premium especially on the train. I only wish they had hooks on the door to hang our coats and other clothing items. Since the walls are made out of stucco I understand the reason for not having hooks.There was an open closet but the metal rod looked flimsy and we didn't want to take a chance and put to much on it. Though this place is dated they have kept it up and nothing seems to be breaking down or in need of immediate repairs.The best time of my stay was during breakfast, which came with continental breakfast fare and a hot breakfast that was included in the price. On a good note we were able to have as much fried eggs or whatever they were making as long as everyone had their share prior to asking for seconds.In addition, we were provided with free laundry with detergent to wash our clothes on a first come first basis. Also, there was a snow/mud room to hang our skies to dry overnight which made things very convenient in the mornings as you put on your ski boots and prep for the slopes with the provided benches. After a day on the slopes we enjoyed the onsen on the premises and yes bathing suits are required.Ms. Dawes and her staff are very wonderful people and you can see she actually enjoys her job. One morning during breakfast Ms. Dawes set up a birthday small cake and what appeared to be a Mimosa with balloons for one of the guest, in my opinion it's her calling to be in this industry.The morning we were leaving Ms. Dawes and her staff helped loaded our luggage onto the van so we could go to the bus stop at the base of the resort so we would be the first to have space for our luggage and seating. This was very surprising because they didn't have to do that, but it made us feel that they were concerned for our safety when it came to trips and falls on the ice/snow going to the bus station.I would highly recommend this place for anyone visiting Madarao Kogen Ski Resort for the first time. When it comes to places to eat there are many places to go out during the evening. It is best to have the staff book your reservations in the mornings prior to hitting the slopes. The eating establishments are booked fast and you maybe out of luck. There is an option of eating at the Hotel/Lodge if you so wish. At the base of the resort there is a convenient store (inside another hotel) to buy snacks for your room for the evening.Best Regards,Dee & ColleenPark City, Utah (USA)

Our family of 5 stayed at Active Life for our recent ski trip to Madarao. |We found the lodge to have a great vibe and it was a really fun place to stay.|Rooms were great, good showers, comfortable beds and a small fridge. …

Great family hotel. The room was a good size with a very comfortable bed. The hotel has heaps of space, there is a games room, hot bath, and a lovely bar and dining room area. Meals and breakfast at the hotel were excellent.|Lisa the manager was a fabulous host, helping us forward our luggage and dropping us at the bus stop.

We left Active Life Madarao this morning with heavy hearts. We booked a 12 night trip last minute & fortune led us to what turned out to be the best accommodation we have experienced in all our travels. We have stayed in more glamorous places but from the minute Lisa told us the answer to any request is always yes we knew we'd struck gold.Together with Stuart they make an amazing team. We have never been made so welcome. The room was enormous and if we could have taken the bed with us we would. Breakfast was yum and so fast! We dined in several times and Georgia's food was oishi. The bar is just lovely and god bless Harry for looking after us with much appreciated apres refreshments.Love love loved staying. We stumbled on our happy place and will be back next season!❤️